The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. – Isaiah 40:3

The Christmas tree, O God, is groaning beneath gift-wrapped anticipation. The table spread before us is resplendent with shared foods prepared by loving hands, for which we give thanks. And now, as this waiting season ticks to a bell-ringing, midnight-marvelous close, we around this table are scooting over to make room for the anticipated Guest. Come, blessing us with the gift of your presence as we say, “Welcome.”

This hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts. He gave us his love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us. – Romans 5:5 NCV

Dear Father, it hurts my heart that something I so believed in and hoped for didn’t come to pass. As I sit in this empty space of wondering why things didn’t work out, I’m asking You to fill me with renewed hope and assurance. You have a better plan. Give me peace, knowing Your plan will replace and far surpass my own notions of fulfillment. Amen.